Dying Well

The time of Paul's departure had come. He would be dying soon, executed by the Roman powers. What do we hear from him as he finishes his course? Grumbling about the injustice of it all? Self-pity? Bitterness, revenge, anger? No. Though he will be unjustly executed for no greater crime than preaching the gospel, Paul is not preoccupied with that. Instead, he reflects on a life well-lived. He refers to his death as being poured out as a drink offering on God's altar. He has fought the good fight. He has finished the course. He has crossed the finish line. He has kept the faith. Then Paul considers his future reward. A crown of righteousness. This is how a Christian should die.